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November 20, 2023 The Washington State Senate Members of Color Caucus issued the following statement in response to the rising hate in our communities, expressing concern about the far-reaching effects of escalating tensions and conflicts across the world: “In recent weeks, our hearts have grown heavy witnessing devastating violence and conflict, which have deeply affected members of our community. The ripple effect of this international conflict has been felt in Washington state, leading to a troubling rise in anti-Semitism and Islamophobia.  “As members of the Washington State Senate Members of Color Caucus (MOCC), we stand with our ...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Jan. 18, 2022 Washington would take a major step to address a lack of data that has hampered law enforcement efforts to reduce violent deaths across the state, if legislation heard today is passed. Sen. Yasmin Trudeau (D-Tacoma) filed a bill that would dramatically improve data collection on violent deaths statewide by creating a new Violence and Death Investigation Resource Center and a Criminal Justice Integrated Data System. SB 5776 would establish a Death Investigation Resource Center, to be housed in the state Department of Health and run by a forensic pathologist. The Center would ...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Jan. 13, 2022 Senate Bill 5752, known as the Washington Future Fund, today had its first public hearing in the Senate Human Services, Reentry & Rehabilitation Committee. The bill would establish the nation’s first debt-free trust fund to create asset-building opportunities in the form of capital for eligible Washingtonians to help provide a pathway out of poverty. “The Washington Future Fund is a bold idea – but big issues demand bold solutions,” said Sen. Yasmin Trudeau (D-Tacoma), the prime sponsor of the bill. “I’m so proud to work with the state treasurer’s office to address ...

OLYMPIA -- Sen. Yasmin Trudeau (D-Tacoma) this week pre-filed two bills that would dismantle barriers to accessible housing in Washington. SB 5755 would establish a tax incentive program to foster development of affordable multifamily housing in urban areas. SB 5749 would ensure that landlords accept non-electronic forms of rental payments, like checks and money orders. “Our state is resilient, and we are both rebuilding and re-envisioning a stronger future for all of us,” said Trudeau. “These bills are part of that process. SB 5755 in particular will stimulate growth in urban areas, make it easier for working Washingtonians to ...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Nov. 2, 2021 The Senate Democratic Caucus today welcomed Yasmin Trudeau as the next senator of the 27^th Legislative District following the retirement of Sen. Jeannie Darneille (D-Tacoma). The Pierce County Council voted to appoint her on a 7-0 vote, and she was sworn in by Washington Chief Justice Steven González. “Yasmin will have an immediate and positive impact on the Senate and the state as a whole,” said Senate Majority Leader Andy Billig (D-Spokane). “She will hit the ground as one of the most prepared new senators this body has ever seen. Her advocacy, empathy ...

The Washington State Senate Members of Color Caucus today issued the following statement in response to the Attorney General's most recent action in the case of Manuel Ellis' death. “As the Members of Color Caucus of the Washington State Senate, we send love and solidarity to Manuel Ellis’ loved ones and community. The Attorney General’s decision to charge two of the involved law enforcement officers with murder and one other with manslaughter may be meaningful progress toward justice, but we know the process to get here was a long and painful one for Manny’s friends and family, ...